Villa Lysis
Villa Lysis is a unique and enchanting spot, closely tied to the life and tastes of Jacques d'Adelswärd Fersen, a Parisian count who withdrew to the island of Capri in self-imposed exile to escape a series of scandals in his home country.
Built in 1904 by Count Fersen, Villa Lysis is as eccentric as the nobleman himself, and his elegant, luxurious home was both reserved and opulent at the same time. It was here that the count had enough privacy to build a life with his Roman lover, Nino Cesarini, far from the gossip and scandal of Parisian society.
In addition to being Fersen's retreat, Villa Lysis also became a gathering place for artists, intellectuals, poets, and writers who visited Capri during the 1900's drawn to its beauty and leisurely lifestyle.
Getting to Villa Lysis: from the Piazzetta, take Via Longano and Via Sopramonte or, alternatively, take Via Le Botteghe, Via Fuorlovado, and Via Croce. Both routes lead you to the "Cross", where you continue on along Via Tiberio to Via Lo Capo.
Walking time: from the Piazzetta, it will take about 45 minutes on foot uphill, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes!
Tickets: EUR 2.5 (free for children under 12)
Tickets purchase online only: www.capriculturaeturismo.it/biglietteriaHours: opening times and prices may vary. Please check them at info-points in Marina Grande or in Piazzeta
Hours
January, February, first half of March
Closed
From March 15 to April 30
10 am to 6 pm
From May 1 to September 15
10 am to 7 pm
From September 16 to November 3
10 am to 6 pm
From November 4 to December 19
Closed
From December 20 to January 7
10 am to 5 pm
A Villa Surrounded by Beauty
A Villa Surrounded by Beauty
Villa Lysis leaves visitors speechless with its beautiful interiors, garden, and view. The intimate salons, the grounds, and the Mediterranean stretched out below are all unforgettable, though the blend of architectural styles, furnishings, and precious marble decor from Louis XVI, Neoclassic, Greek, Art Nouveau, and Viennese Secession schools which feature everything from ornate stucco to floral motifs to gold leaf and Oriental influences is what makes this villa truly unique.
Be sure to dedicate some time to the garden surrounding Villa Lysis, with its scenic overlooks from the historic villa built on the clifftop over the sea facing the Bay of Marina Grande.
The entrance to Villa Lysis is one of its most iconic features, with a grand staircase leading up to a peristyle lined with Ionic columns and topped by the Latin inscription "Amori et Dolori Sacrum", chosen by Fersen himself to reflect his life marked by the conflict between love and suffering.
Events in villa
Events in villa
During the summer months, Villa Lysis holds public concerts, art exhibitions, and theatrical and dance performances in addition to elegant private events including weddings, receptions, and gala dinners.
Nearby Sights
Near Villa Lysis on Mount Tiberius, there are two other beautiful sights which are worth a visit and make the walk uphill worth the effort!Villa Jovis: the island residence of the Roman emperor Tiberius, this is the most important archaeological site on Capri and is located at the very top of Mount Tiberius. There is a walking trail between Villa Lysis and Villa Jovis.
FAQ - Frequently asked questions
Villa Lysis: hours, tickets and prices
Getting there: from the Piazzetta, take Via Longano and Via Sopramonte or, alternatively, take Via Le Botteghe, Via Fuorlovado, and Via Croce. Both routes lead you to the "Cross", where you continue on along Via Tiberio to Via Lo Capo.
Walking time from Piazzetta: 45 minutes.
Ticket price: EUR 1.5. Children under 12 free.
Opening & Hours: every day except Wednesday, at the following times:
From September 16th 2023 to November 3rd 2023: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
From December 20th 2023 to January 7th 2024: 10 a.m to 5p.m
June, July, August: 10:00 a.M. - 7:00 p.M.
Last entry: 30 minutes before closing.
Notes: Opening times and prices may vary. Please check them at info-points in Marina Grande or in Piazzetta.